NASA gives ATK a thank you, big check, possible mission to Mars

The Lagrange Point parking spot could also be used as a staging platform for much deeper space missions to asteroids or to Mars.

"A Space Launch System that will explore beyond low Earth orbit could be in operation for a couple of decades or longer," Precourt said. "So this is a huge opportunity for us to be part of that team from the beginning."

ATK has had its up and downs in the space program. Three years ago, the company had 4,500 Utah workers. Now, there are just 2,100 jobs. Workers know that it's a competitive business and that NASA could choose another company for the long haul.

"To be competitive, we have got to be cost-effective," Precourt said.

NASA has urged its contractors to reduce costs. Dumbacher indicated it could play a big role in which companies stay on board the program.

"We're going to be working on getting the costs down," he said, "and it will be a key criteria in our decision process."

The key turning point for ATK could come in 2015, when NASA will choose among competing companies. Assuming the program stays alive for 20 years or more, it could mean billions of dollars in business for ATK.

E-mail: hollenhorst@desnews.com